This year’s iteration of the country’s “largest and most prestigious” wine trade show, CapeWine 2025, drew an attendance of over 1 605 delegates worldwide, cementing its reputation as the “premier showcase” for local wine.

The event – with the theme: Our Warmest Welcome – organised by industry organisation Wines of South Africa (WoSA), was held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in September, and hosted delegates from over 60 countries.

“The three days of connection, learning and collaboration were a powerful indication of the global interest in the country’s wine industry,” says WoSA CEO Siobhan Thompson, adding that “CapeWine 2025 truly lived up to its theme”.

The engagements generated demonstrate the strength of South African wine globally.

“This event was about forging connections and inspiring future growth and, from the feedback we have received, this was the best CapeWine yet,” she adds.

Popping the Cork

This year’s event was opened by Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen who highlighted the significant role of partnerships in the South African wine sector over the past two years. 

“The partnership between the African Future Fund and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture helped co-found Wine Arc”, providing a platform for emerging brands and facilitating market access, he cited.

Further, he pointed to the African Future Trust, which supports small businesses, focusing on growth and job creation in the small-, medium-sized and microenterprise spheres.

Steenhuisen also stressed the importance of blending resources and capabilities to create jobs, exports and inclusion. 

He joked that, while government should not make wine, collaboration is essential to enhancing job creation, exports, inclusion and environmental responsibility, thereby creating a wine industry that is globally respected, locally inclusive and economically vital.

Growing Network

The co-located CapeWine expo – a part of CapeWine, first hosted in 2000 – has become renowned for its extensive showcase of over 400 South African wine producers, says Thompson.

“Over three successful days, CapeWine 2025 [fostered] a unique opportunity to meet hundreds of local producers under one roof.”

The busy show floor had “important discussions, fruitful meetings and a positive spirit of collaboration”, with many attendees confident that business deals would follow.

The tenth edition was once again supported by key sponsorship partners, with global logistics and shipping company DHL and global beverage logistics partners Hillebrand Gori sponsoring the expo for a fourth time.

Six formal seminars were held in the Formal area – sponsored by original-equipment manufacturer John Deere. 



On the final day, WoSA unveiled its new branding, signalling an exciting new chapter for the industry.

“The fresh strapline: There’s Sunshine Inside, and new logo highlight WoSA’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and excellence as it continues to strengthen its global presence,” concludes Thompson.